Chiefs’ embattled offensive lineman told to leave meeting before being placed on injured reserve: report
Kansas City Chiefs rookie offensive lineman Josh Simmons was reportedly told to leave a meeting with head coach Andy Reid and quarterback Patrick Mahomes after a disagreement about his back. The incident, reported by ESPN and NFL Network, has added to uncertainty about Simmons’ absence and his future with the team.
The Chiefs selected Simmons in the first round of the 2025 draft to help protect Mahomes, but he played only eight games that season and has not appeared in 2026. The team said he had a bulging disc in his back, and placed him on injured reserve on Thursday; if eligible, he could return in Week 11. Kahlil Benson, who has played in all five of the Chiefs’ games this season, is next in line at left tackle.
In short
- Josh Simmons was reportedly asked to leave a meeting with Reid and Mahomes.
- The Chiefs placed the lineman on injured reserve with a back issue.
- Kahlil Benson is next up at left tackle.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The reported disagreement may raise legitimate concerns about Simmons’ health and readiness, and the Chiefs have a responsibility to protect the player while planning reliably for the season. Placing him on injured reserve could give him time to recover and allow the team to prepare Benson or another player to protect Mahomes.
The case against
A player’s medical situation is personal, and a disagreement about his back does not by itself establish that he is unwilling or unable to play. If Simmons is medically able and wants to contribute, sidelining him could harm his development and career; the team should communicate clearly and handle the issue with care.
Explained simply
The Kansas City Chiefs are an American football team in the NFL, where the offensive line blocks opponents and protects the quarterback. Patrick Mahomes is the Chiefs’ starting quarterback, and left tackle is a key position on the line because it helps guard against pressure from one side.
Josh Simmons joined the Chiefs as a first-round draft pick in 2025, meaning the team chose him early in the annual selection of new players. He has played eight games for Kansas City and has not appeared this season; the team has said he has a bulging disc in his back. Kahlil Benson has been playing at left tackle this season.